jimexton

^ Regarding what the OP has stated as support for the accommodation issue, ie. a letter from his father, I do not consider that as being 'very light in paperwork'. The application guidelines state this as a requirement and it is all I have needed in the past for my wife's successful visit visa applications. A simple one-page letter stating ownership/tenancy, bit of personal history like prior employment and years in residence, mentioning the applicant and partner and signed.

The long-winded citation for the cause for refusal looks like they never even saw the letter written by the OP's father. I suspect a clerical error but how do you appeal that?

I assumed you were in Thailand which makes the whole thing very bizarre as a reason to return is normally the biggest hurdle, and you seem to have that well covered.

How long have you been together, if you have been living together as a couple for over two years, even if not married, you could apply for a visa for a family visit, the conditions are the same but it carries the right of appeal.

I doubt very much if they are refusing applications as a way of increasing revenue, though you seem to be right in saying that they appear to be tightening up even if making a hash of it.

If you want a second opinion you could do a lot worse than bouncing it off Visa Plus, they seem pretty savvy.

Good luck.